Damme is a unique and interesting town, not too full of medieval places of interest, but great outdoor fun for the entire family.
Even though Damme has had permanent residents for thousands of years, the town itself wasn’t officially founded until 785 A.D., just about the time the first church was built here. Archeological finds have also found large stone graves dating back to around the Bronze Age.
Besides the historical aspect to the city, including once being an iron ore mining town, this is a place that knows how to MOVE, as sports play a large part of daily life here.
You can really find yourself learning the local flavor here when you visit the City Museum. Founded in 1992 it’s filled with plenty of local and regional history, including all about how the mining of iron ore contributed to the town’s growth.
The Wassermühle Höltermann is a medieval mill with the oldest part dating to 1643. The mill was updated throughout the years to keep up with modern technology, including replacing the water power with motorized power in 1930.
If you truly wish to experience Damme, then you must be here for the annual Carnival celebrating Mardi Gras. Damme has truly learned how to party heavily, as they’ve been doing it every year since 1614 right before Lent. For two days, enjoy the tens of thousands of visitors with bright colorful costumes and delicious food!
Best of all about Damme are all the outdoor activities for the entire family to enjoy. There are 11 Nordic walking trails available from beginner to advance. The best part is that it’s quite easy to learn!
From mid May through Mid September, Damme’s summer season, the baths (outdoor swimming pool) and the children’s water play garden are open for everyone to enjoy the water and bright sunshine.
And speaking of swimming, you’ll most certainly enjoy spending a day at the Dümmer See a.k.a. Stupid Lake (the name certainly gets lost in the translation and I suggest you go just for the name alone). Don’t think for a minute that Damme rolls up the sidewalks though as the cold weather and snow come for the winter. When the lake freezes, residents get out and start ice skating on the frozen water.
Stupid Lake? I don’t think so! Sounds like a jolly good time to me! ;-)
